BERNARDS TOWNSHIP, N.J. (AP) -- A New Jersey town has approved construction of a mosque following years of debate and a $3.25 million settlement in a lawsuit.

The Bernards Township committee approved the plan Tuesday night.

The Islamic Society of Basking Ridge had sued the township last year, claiming the town changed its zoning ordinances in order to deny the group's plans. The Justice Department also sued, alleging the town treated the group differently than it treated other religious groups.

Under terms of the settlement, the township will pay the settlement figure and allow the mosque to be built. The town also agreed to limit the zoning restrictions placed on houses of worship.

Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.